Saltwater– As of March 1st, Speckled Trout cannot be kept by recreational anglers. This decision is to attempt to offset the large fish kills that have occurred in the lower bay this winter. The Elizabeth River remains an option for catch and release fishing. Stick with slow sinking twitch baits, suspending jerk baits, and live bait. These presentations will also tempt Redfish into biting inside the Elizabeth. Tautog remain a reliable option when conditions allow. The Triangle Wrecks have been a very popular area. Deep dropping is another reliable option for excellent table fare if you’re willing to endure lengthy boat rides. Anglers often fill the biggest coolers they can carry.

Freshwater– Although we’ve been plagued by snow and ice storms, making fishing difficult, there’s still good fishing to be had right now. The tidal rivers are still offering Yellow Perch to willing anglers. Blue Cats are another aggressive species available in a variety of conditions. Tidal flats can warm quickly under the March sun, providing movements of active fish. Largemouth Bass and Crappie are also increasing their feeding habits in our tidal waters. Single tail grubs are especially good for tidal water due to the many sizes available to target multiple species. Alabama rigs are effective for tidal Bass right now. Alabama rigs are also effective on area lakes like Anna, Gaston, Kerr, and Smith. Crappie have become more active, but with this late cold snap, they could pull back to deeper areas like bridge pilings. Landlocked Stripers have been moving shallower also, which, sometimes, they will be nosing the banks. Chain Pickerel are biting well on Chickahominy Lake and Swift Creek Reservoir. Area ponds will offer excellent opportunities this weekend, as we have a promising forecast.